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Programs & Services

Youth & Young Adult

EMPOWERING YOUTH WITH SKILLS FOR SUCCESS

At Peckham, we empower youth and young adults to pursue their dreams through vocational training and transitional skills coaching. Our evidence-based programs help young people facing employment challenges develop the skills they need to transition from school to the workforce, from dependence to independence. We specialize in developing engaging programs that empower youth with juvenile court histories and disabilities. At Peckham, we’re shaping futures and creating a movement of motivated young people ready to take on the world.

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What We Offer

Education and Training

At Peckham, we understand the importance of standing out in today’s competitive job market. That’s why we help you achieve Industry-Recognized Credentials (IRCs) across a range of exciting sectors. Whether your interests lie in the trades, hospitality/culinary, or beyond, we’re committed to training your unique skill set and competencies for prospective employers.

We also collaborate with education partners to provide support as you pursue your high school diploma or GED. GED Services are available through Capital Area Michigan Works!

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Tailored Career Journey

At Peckham, we recognize a young person’s individuality – each with their own career aspirations, abilities and life circumstances. We use a personalized approach to guide young people on their career journey. Our goal is to equip them with the steps and skills needed to secure a job and pursue their dream career.

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Specialized Services for Court Involved Youth

Peckham offers unique leadership opportunities centered around the needs of court-involved youth. Through mentorship and guidance, we empower youth to take charge of their futures, supporting personal growth and self-confidence.

We also provide evidence-based skill development, specialized training and Industry-Recognized Credentials (IRCs).

Peckham’s Footprints residential program is for teenage girls under court jurisdiction in Ingham County. Footprints provides a supportive environment and comprehensive services for positive growth and well-being.

Trauma Informed Care

Many youth in our programs have experienced traumatic life events. Peckham ensures all staff are trained in trauma-informed care. Embers is a 12-week trauma-informed program specifically designed for girls aged 12-17, who have experienced traumatic events.

School Partnerships

Peckham’s Work-Based Learning is a dynamic program linking school and career, while exploring work concepts and local job opportunities. We design each student’s path to match their pace and support them at each stage. Students engage in practical learning and build community connections. At each transition, we connect students with resources for success, with the goal of obtaining meaningful employment. Peckham collaborates directly with local schools and state vocational rehabilitation offices to provide opportunities to both youth and young adults.

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Supplemental Learning

Peckham collaborates with many schools to deliver school-based instruction. We cover a variety of critical topics including employment skills, leadership development, STEM careers, trauma recovery skills and mentoring. With a focus on innovation, Peckham is dedicated to cultivating robust partnerships with local schools to offer tailored programs that address the diverse needs of students.

Success Stories

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Testimonials

“Tell me why I’m starting to already love it here. This is like the home I never had.”

Footprints Resident

“I was in the School to Work program. Then I started working at Meijer. I like Meijer. My favorite thing to do is stock shelves and condition shelves.”

Jacob
Student

“It’s giving [my daughter] a purpose, teaching her skills and experience so that we can hopefully get her employed and I’m just happy that there’s programs like this.”

Stephanie Loran
Mother of student

“We 100% want to do anything we can to continue this partnership. We receive nothing but positive feedback from our store teams and customers on these students and are elated to have them on our teams.”

Alex Ross
Meijer Market Director

“We were happy to be a part of the program. We look forward to joining you again next year.”

Matt
Graff Chevrolet

“It was our pleasure having Riley and Jerimiah at the State of Fitness. They were both wonderful to have and were well received. The members enjoyed having them around. We would love to host interns again. You can count us in for next Summer. As the semester approaches, we can touch base and review the details against o we provide the best possible opportunity for your students.”

Justin
State of Fitness

“Potter Park Zoo would be happy to participate in 2025.  I would say that two students per morning and two per afternoon shift is our max.  While the three students in the AM shift this past session got along well, it was still a bit too much in terms of having enough work for them to do.”

Cynthia Wagner
Potter Park Zoo

“We love our partnership with Peckham and wish to continue providing opportunities for these students moving forward.  Thank you for your communication and partnership!”

Kristine Schaeding
Dewitt Meijer

“Had I known how great this program would be, I would have done this sooner.  I will tell all the other store directors they should consider this type of partnership.  Students have had a positive impact on their customer and colleagues.”

Joseph Smith
Owosso/Corunna Meijer

Events

Thursday

May 1

10:30 a.m.

Spring 2025 Speaker Series

View Event

Tuesday

Jun 10

Peckham’s 31st Annual Golf Outing

View Event
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Youth celebrated and honored at the annual Youth Services Awards

man holding a framed award next to two young professional women with nametags

Celebrating a young adult participant and his success during annual award program

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Recipient of all-star award being honored for her accomplishments during annual award program

4 young people sit in front of microphones in a school

Flint youth collaborate with community partners on podcast about youth issues.

two young people work next to each other in a commercial kitchen setting

Youth learn and explore the culinary arts through one of Peckham’s career pathway programs.

2 young people take pieces of drywall off a wall

Youth learn and explore skilled trades and have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized credentials.

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CONTACT OUR YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULT SERVICES TEAM

Contact us today to explore how our programs can empower a young person facing barriers with the skills and support they need for a successful future.

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